The FIRST and Credit Suisse communities have lost a dear friend. Tony Paxton passed away on October 28, 2008.

Tony was an extraordinary person. His loss brings much sadness, but also a reminder that we need to cherish our friends and shared humanity every day of our brief lives.

Those of you who loved Tony as we do, please add your comments. Send them and any photos of Tony you would like to have added to this blog, to randyschaeffer@gmail.com


Thursday, October 30, 2008

 
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FIRST Robotics enjoys the support of more than 100,000 volunteers. Then, there is the incredible support of Tony Paxton who loved FIRST, and what it could do for young minds. He gave it his all in every sense of the word. Words are always inadequate in a moment in time such as this, but the people he touched through FIRST, and no doubt in his other philanthropic endeavors, were enriched by what Tony strove to accomplish with grace. If FIRST Robotics was a major league sport of the mind, his team jersey for FIRST Robotics would be retired in perpetuity.

I offer my deepest condolences to Tony’s family and many friends.

Jim Utaski
Vice Chairman
Board of Directors
FIRST
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1 comment:

  1. AnonymousNovember 5, 2008 at 8:18 AM

    I only was in the warm presence of Tony Paxton 5-6 times in the year that I have been a member of the NYC/NJ FIRST staff. I first encountered Tony via phone conversations as he led the NYC FRC effort while stationed in India for Credit Suisse. He would call in at 4AM India time to lead the teleconference calls moving to prepare and organize the 2008 NYC FRC. His voice on the phone commanded your attention and his joyful and pleasant manner made the calls special. I first met Tony in person at the NYC FRC in April . . . and his physical presence, warm human spirit, can-do attitude, insightful thoughts, and jolly way were so engaging. I felt honored and privileged to have the opportunity to work with him for a program that meant so much to him - and me. As we approach Thanksgiving, I am thankful and grateful to have come to know and work with Tony and deeply appreciate and applaud all his efforts to advance FIRST. One can see by reading all the posted comments that he was loved and respected by all. His life of service to his family and the many communities and causes is a model for all to follow. He was a remarkable, extraorindary human being and his presence and service to others will be sorely missed. May the God of us all bless Tony and his surviving family in many wonderful ways. May he be an inspiration to all of us to always look to reach out to help and serve one another. His life made such a positive difference. Joy to us all who had the pleasure to know and serve with Tony! Donald Bowers

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